The Effect of Electronic Cigarettes Compared to Regular Smoking on Some Blood Characteristics and Kidney Function

Abstract

Background: Cigarette smoking remains a leading preventable cause of morbidity, while electronic cigarettes are promoted as safer alternatives despite limited comparative evidence.
Objective: To compare the effects of conventional and electronic cigarette use on hematological parameters, lipid profile, and kidney function.
Methods: Sixty participants formed three groups: cigarette smokers, electronic cigarette users (vapers), and healthy controls (n = 20 per group). Complete blood count, cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, and creatinine were measured and analyzed by one-way ANOVA (P < 0.05).
Results: Groups were age-matched (P = 0.307). RBC, hemoglobin, and platelet counts were significantly higher in both smoking groups than controls; vapers had the highest RBC (6.20 ± 0.08). Cholesterol (274.85 ± 20.16 mg/dL) and triglycerides (201.80 ± 5.42 mg/dL) peaked in vapers, whereas urea and creatinine were highest in smokers (40.80 and 1.62 mg/dL).
Conclusion: Electronic cigarettes are not physiologically inert, inducing hematological, lipid, and renal alterations comparable to conventional smoking.